An upbeat decision

Addicks skipper Nicky Bailey has chosen the new name for a team to represent Charlton's Down's syndrome programme.

Nicky Bailey (left) has chosen the new name for a team to represent Charlton's Down's Syndrome programme

The Charlton Upbeats moniker was suggested by 18-year-old Perry Goldstone after the Charlton Community Trust, which has run the Down's syndrome project for the past five months, launched a special competition.

There were 37 entries, and Bailey's selection means Goldstone will not only have the honour of seeing his team name in lights, he will also receive four tickets to a Charlton home game.

The trust's Down's syndrome programme runs for 90 minutes every Saturday, and more than 60 youngsters have attended since its launch. Around 25-30 youngsters aged between five and 26 attend every week.

The initiative began in partnership with DS Active to provide opportunities for youngsters with Down's to access and enjoy football and other activities at their own speed and at a level that is manageable for them.

"I feel this name will give the group a really good sound," said midfielder Bailey. "As it is an inspirational name, it will also help persuade any other young people who have Down's syndrome who may be thinking of joining the programme to give it a go. This is a tremendous programme and I wish it every success."

The official website will soon have some big news about Charlton's Down's syndrome initiative, so check out www.cafc.co.uk early next week.

For more information about the Charlton Upbeats, contact trust disability and mental health officer Carl Krauhaus on 020-8850 2866 or email carl.krauhaus@cact.org.uk